Getting Back to Peopling

I’ve been peopling this week. Yes, actually out among people doing some fun, what feels like normal, things without a mask.  I’m guessing that whether you’ve been out and about all along or you’re just starting to emerge, that you’re making a few of the same discoveries I am after these long 14 months. 
 
It feels a little strange and is kind of exhausting, but being out around people who are laughing and smiling and socializing is a gift that I never knew how much I took for granted. I hope I never forget the joy of being able to simply mingle and see others’ facial expressions. 
 
Kindness and patience are extra needed and extra welcome by everyone who is trying to figure out how to gracefully (and sometimes awkwardly) move forward. From getting back to the office to navigating vaccines to waiting a little longer for something because workers and servers are in high demand, a calm and understanding approach helps to make everyone’s world brighter. 
 
Humor goes a long way.  Isn’t it the best when someone you’re with has a talent for relieving the tension with a little laughter? If you have this gift, use it! Sometimes it’s about simply putting up our radar for finding a little more laughter in the day to day. 
 
As things get back to a new form of normal, I’m taking with me these discoveries and the clarity of the last year – that it takes so very little to be happy.  I have a whole new respect for ordinary days doing ordinary things out in the world among others. 
 
I wish you the best as you get back to peopling too.